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Human trafficking is alleged criminal activity whereby one (1) or more child(ren) are subjected to engage in forced labor or services or commercial sexual activity regardless of whether or not force, fraud or coercion is used.

Procedure

The SSW:

Initiates the report within twenty four (24) hoursof receipt unless there are high risk factors that need to be addressed sooner;

Investigates the report jointly with law enforcement:

Interviews the perpetrator, only with law enforcement; and

Shares information throughout the investigation;

Conducts interviews relevant to the investigation;

Assesses the child’s safety throughout the investigation;

Investigates whether or not the trafficking activities occurred in other states or countries, or whether or not the victim resided in other states or countries;

Requests consultation Consults with the Child Protective Services Branch (502-564-2136 or DCBSChildProtection@ky.gov) as needed for guidance during the investigationwithin seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of the report;

Makes reasonable efforts to keep children with their parents, or reunite them with their parents;

Makes appropriate service referrals for victims and their family members;

Consults with local MDT and presents investigation to the team, KRS 620.040(7)(d).;

Includes an assessment of the individual who is responsible for the human trafficking, even if the individual is a non-caretaker;

Initiates court activity, as necessary, to ensure the child’s safety;

Completes a familial risk assessment as part of the investigation;

Makes a finding based on the risk assessment and family’s need for services;

Mails the appropriate findings letters and appeals forms to caretaker perpetrators per SOP 2.13 Notification of Finding and Case Disposition.

Contingencies and Clarifications

When appropriate, the SSW should complete the following tasks:

Notify the child’s attorney that the child may be a victim of human trafficking (status offender only).

Contact other states to request courtesy interviews for identified individuals who may have information relevant to the investigation.

Conduct forensic interviews of child victims at the Children's Advocacy Center in joint cooperation with law enforcement (KRS 620.040(6)).